COSMETIC DENTISTRY

COSMETIC TREATMENT OPTIONS

The experienced professionals of Dental Health Solutions improve aesthetics with every dental procedure. Cosmetic dentistry is connected to all aspects of maintaining the best oral health. Whether treating decay, a cracked tooth or gum disease, Dr. Juan Lopez and Dr. Yamilka Serrano work to improve function and beauty. We want our patients to be able to smile with confidence and enjoy optimal dental wellness.

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The field of cosmetic dentistry has enjoyed significant advancements over the years. Commonly understood to be the branch of dentistry concerned with the aesthetics (appearance) of teeth, cosmetic dentistry and its procedures are now known for their support of whole health and well-being. At Dental Health Solutions, we believe a good looking smile is also a healthy smile!

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Cosmetic Procedures by Dental Health Solutions

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Dental Health Solutions can address multiple dental issues. From misalignment and gaps in the teeth to restoring and transforming a smile, Drs. Lopez and Serrano offer many affordable and effective comprehensive cosmetic solutions that include:

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Dentures – Dentures refer to the artificial replacement of one or several teeth. Dentures can be partial, complete, fixed or removable (dental implant supported or retained). The aim of dentures is to provide patients with the ability to use their prosthetic teeth to improve eating,restore self confidence,and enhance your appearance by giving extra support to your cheeks and lips.

Dental Implants – Dental implants are the most advanced technology in dentistry. Implants provide a fixed permanent solution for missing teeth. They can stabilize new dentures, bridges or act on their own supporting a single restoration. They offer patients a greater quality of life and comfort with long-term results.

Bleaching– Bleaching is the act of removing stains from the surface of the teeth. The procedure is among the most popular of all cosmetic therapies and is highly effective in improving the appearance of a patient’s smile.

Crowns – Crowns are used to restore function and beauty to a single tooth, as anchors for bridges and atop single dental implants. Also known as caps, crowns are customized to closely resemble a natural tooth and protect the natural tooth.

White Fillings – White fillings (composite) offer an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional fillings. Designed to blend in with the natural tooth, composite fillings are used to address decay, small cracks and fractures.

Veneers – Veneers can completely alter the appearance of a smile in terms of shape, size, color and alignment. Porcelain veneers are durable and provide whiter results for those who do not qualify for whitening treatments or wish to address gaps and misalignments in there smile.

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Cosmetic procedures to improve beauty and function

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Dental Health Solutions works with New York dental labs and 100% , and only offer the highest quality restoration materials for our patients. The quality of the materials affects the outcome of the procedure – it can be the difference between a short-term fix and a long-term solution. Without quality materials, patients are more likely to require further treatments to address their problems, which in the long run can cost them more time and money, as well as unnecessary discomfort. Dental Health Solutions and staff want to avoid any kind of inconvenient patient experience.

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If you are looking to improve your smile with long-lasting dental treatments, contact Dental Health Solutions of Fulton today. Drs. Lopez and Serrano will educate you on cosmetic solutions that best match your smile.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental Implants from Dental Health Solutions

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Dental implants offer a natural looking replacement for adult teeth. In addition, implants restore functionality to the jaw, making speaking, eating, and chewing easier. Most implants are comprised of a screw that is embedded into the bone and a post to which the prosthesis is attached.

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Implants are unique because the microsurface of the cone-shaped screw contains an innovative bone-bonding component. This means that implants can be placed in areas with low bone density, sparing the patient the mess and misery of wearing poorly fitting dentures. Additionally, the bone-bonding component means quicker recovery time after the implant is placed.

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Why should I choose 3i dental implants?

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There are a wide variety of dental implants in the marketplace, but 3i have an almost unparalleled success rate. Almost 98% of 3i implants are fitted successfully and last for a lifetime. 3i implants contain a unique feature, which is embedded in the surface of the screw. Implant screws made by other companies are sprayed with calcium phosphate to enhance the bone integration process. However, 3i screws actually contain calcium phosphate, which means that delamination is less likely to occur.

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Additionally, the cone-shaped 3i screw adds precision to the placement of implants and ensures that the final prosthesis is comfortable and can withstand pressure.

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Here are some of the other benefits associated with 3i implants:

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Better oral health.

Higher success rate.

Improved self-esteem.

Long-lasting results.

Multiple 3i implants can be placed during a visit.

Natural-looking implants.

No adhesives or mess.

Prevention of bone loss and gum recession.

Sturdy, functional prosthetic teeth.

How are 3i dental implants placed?

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The procedure for placing 3i dental implants is similar to many other implant procedures. It is usually performed in two short visits, the first visit being typically an hour in length and the second taking around thirty minutes.

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After the dentist has analyzed the X-rays and diagnostic results, the implant root can be inserted. This procedure will be performed under local anesthetic, unless another type of sedation is preferred.

Here is a step-by-step process for the first stage of a dental implant placement:

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An incision will be made in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone.

A tiny hole will be drilled into the jawbone to insert the implant into.

The implant will be screwed or tapped into the designated position.

A small temporary stop-cap is placed to cover the implant, and the surgical site is sutured closed.

After approximately 10 days, the sutures will be removed and the dentist will assess the healing process.

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Here is a brief overview of can be expected at the second appointment:

A local anesthetic will be administered, and a tiny incision will be made to expose the prosthetic root. The temporary stop-cap will be removed and a small post or abutment will be attached to the implant.

When the healing process is complete, the new dental prosthesis (usually a crown) will be created from bite impressions. A tiny screw will be used to secure the prosthesis onto the abutment. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure the prosthesis is comfortable, and the dental implant will be secure.

EMPRESS® RESTORATIONS

Empress® Restorations from Dental Health Solutions

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Dental veneers, crowns, onlays, inlays, and bridges are important restorations which enhance the health and functionality of the natural teeth. A sparkling smile can be an enormous confidence-booster and have a dramatic effect on a person’s appearance. Empress® has been dedicated to creating natural-looking restorations for almost two decades and is one of the world leaders in dental ceramics.

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Empress® veneers, crowns, onlays, overlays and dental bridges are renowned for their strength, durability and exceptional optical properties. Empress® restorations are completely metal-free, and are constructed from inorganic material which is baked and cured at high temperatures.

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Why should I choose Empress® restorations?

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Empress® is continually refining and enhancing restorations to ensure that they look natural and restore complete functionality to the teeth.

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Traditional ceramic restorations were known for being brittle and expensive to repair after sustaining damage. However, Empress® has developed a heat-pressed glass ceramic that is immensely strong and durable. There are several reasons for this, including the high shrinkage of leucite crystals. This shrinkage means that compressive stress is created during the vitreous stage, thus preventing breakage and cracking.

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The unique veneer glaze and stain also increases strength by as much as 50%. These elements combined establish a thicker restoration that is fracture resistant. Empress® crowns have a 100% chance of surviving the first three years. This means less dental visits, less expense, and a sensational, comfortable smile.

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Here are some of the advantages associated with Empress® restorations:

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Biocompatible.

Do not affect other dentition.

Ease of application.

Excellent polishing properties.

Many levels of translucency available.

Metal-free.

Natural-looking.

Shades match the other teeth.

What restorations can be done using Empress® products?

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Empress® has created many natural-looking restorations, including:

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Empress® Veneers – These veneers are wafer-thin porcelain and ceramic covers which fit permanently over natural teeth. Empress® veneers are perfect for covering disfigured and stained teeth. They are stain and bacteria-resistant, strong, and can be manufactured to match the natural tooth shade.

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Empress® Crowns – These crowns are generally placed after root canal therapy or after the removal of tooth decay. Empress® crowns are proven to last longer than many types of crowns, and again, can be matched exactly to the natural tooth shade. There is no visible, ugly metal edge, just a sensational end result.

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Empress® Inlays/Onlays – Inlays and onlays are currently being used to replace the traditional amalgam fillings. Amalgam is unpleasant to view and unhealthy for the body. Empress® ceramic inlays and overlays are strong, healthy, and usually invisible to onlookers.

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Empress® Bridges – As with all Empress® products, Empress® bridges are a completely natural-looking way to replace missing teeth. Metal bridges are often highly visible and make the teeth look shorter. Empress® bridges are almost impossible to spot and restore symmetry and sparkle to the smile.

WHITE FILLINGS

Composite Fillings from Dental Health Solutions

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A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

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There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

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As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

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Reasons for composite fillings:

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Chipped teeth.

Closing space between two teeth.

Cracked or broken teeth.

Decayed teeth.

Worn teeth.

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

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It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

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You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

PROCERA® CROWNS

Dental Health Solutions Offer Procera® Crowns in Fulton, NY

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Traditionally, prosthodontic crowns were comprised of porcelain fused to metal. This solid combination is still used by many dental professionals as a simple, cost effective option. More recently however, the introduction of fully ceramic Procera® crowns have changed the aesthetic appearance of many smiles. Procera® crowns function in exactly the same way as traditional crowns, but their fully ceramic composition means that the restoration looks far more natural.

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Dental crowns are usually placed to strengthen an injured tooth. All dental professionals agree that when possible, it is advantageous to restore a natural tooth rather than replace it with a prosthetic alternative. Procera® crowns are precision-engineered to create a beautiful fit and restore full functionality to the injured tooth.

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Why might a Procera® crown be necessary?

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Unlike the majority of the rest of the body, the teeth do not have extensive healing capabilities. Therefore, once the enamel (or surface) of the tooth is injured in some manner, it does not have the ability to heal itself. Dental crowns are placed to stabilize damaged teeth and permanently prevent the propagation of further damage. Enamel may be injured by trauma, bacterial infections or decay. Crowns are often used to seal teeth after root canal therapy.

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Procera® crowns have many advantages over the porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) alternative, including:

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Exact color matching – Procera® crowns can be created in a color that will perfectly match the color of existing teeth. This means the restoration is invisible to onlookers.

No metal base – The partially ceramic traditional crowns do look somewhat natural on top, but an unsightly metal band still exists near the base of the tooth. Procera® crowns completely eliminate the metal aspect.

Biocompatibility – Procera® crowns have been engineered to encourage the gums to grow back around them. This means that eventually, full gum symmetry and stability is achieved.

Placing a crown is a common and straightforward procedure that dental professionals perform on a regular basis. X-rays and impressions are taken and a thorough examination is conducted prior to treatment. It is important for a dental professional to assess the health of adjacent teeth and gums, to ensure that there are no underlying issues.

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A local anesthetic is administered while the tooth is being shaped. The shaping is necessary to ensure that the crown will fit snugly on the tooth. This process is done slowly and carefully to ensure that the soft tissue around the tooth is not damaged. When the tooth is fully prepared, the dental professional creates an accurate mold of the tooth and chooses the porcelain color. A temporary crown is placed while the custom Procera® crown is being created at the laboratory.

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At the next appointment, the temporary crown is removed. The inner tooth is thoroughly cleansed to ensure that any bacteria are eliminated. The permanent Procera® crown is affixed to the tooth using luting cement, and a beautiful smile is created.

PORCELAIN CROWNS (Caps)

Porcelain Crowns from Dental Health Solutions

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A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

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Reasons for crowns:

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Broken or fractured teeth.

Cosmetic enhancement.

Decayed teeth.

Fractured fillings.

Large fillings.

Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

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A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

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While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

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At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

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You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

PORCELAIN FIXED BRIDGES

Fixed Dental Bridges from Dental Health Solutions

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A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

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There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

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Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

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Reasons for a fixed bridge:

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Fill space of missing teeth.

Maintain facial shape.

Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

Restore chewing and speaking ability.

Restore your smile.

Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

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Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

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At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

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You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

PORCELAIN VENEERS

Porcelain Veneers from Dental Health Solutions in Fulton, NY

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Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.

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As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

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Reasons for porcelain veneers:

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Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.

Crooked teeth.

Misshapen teeth.

Severely discolored or stained teeth.

Teeth that are too small or large.

Unwanted or uneven spaces.

Worn or chipped teeth.

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

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Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

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On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

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You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.

TEETH WHITENING

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

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Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

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Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

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Reasons for teeth whitening:

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Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).

Normal wear of outer tooth layer.

Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).

Yellow, brown stained teeth.

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What does teeth whitening involve?

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This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, plastic, trays.

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At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

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You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.